Ernie Black, also known to many as “The Silent Auction Guy,” has built a business around helping others raise more, reach further, and make a bigger impact. Through Socially Funded, Ernie provides certified and authenticated auction items to local charity and foundation events, creating opportunities for organizations to generate additional funds without taking on additional cost or risk.
For the past six years, Ernie has focused on building a model that is simple and effective. Socially Funded operates on a consignment basis, meaning there is no upfront cost to the organization. The result is a true win-win. Foundations gain access to a wide variety of sports, music, cinema, and Americana items that drive engagement and bidding, while keeping their focus on their mission, where it belongs.
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Socially Funded silent auction at WPBA's Bowling 4 Boobs cancer fundraiser
What Ernie is most proud of right now is the ability to consistently retain events year after year. That kind of trust does not happen by accident. It comes from delivering value, showing up, and making sure every event is better than the last. It has also opened the door to new relationships and opportunities through the connections built at each event.
Within WPBA, Ernie has become a familiar and trusted presence, especially at two of our most meaningful fundraisers, WPBA's Bowling 4 Boobs cancer fundraiser, and WPBA's How The Grinch Saved Christmas holiday fundraiser. His contributions behind the scenes have helped elevate our auctions, bringing in items that spark excitement, increase participation, and ultimately drive more dollars back into the community.
That impact adds up in a big way.
Event attendees excitedly bid on silent auction items provided by Socially Funded at WPBA's How The Grinch Saved Christmas holiday fundraiser
Like many businesses, one of the early challenges was simply helping people understand the value of the service. Once that clicked, everything changed. Through WPBA, Ernie has been able to build relationships, expand his network, and consistently get in front of the right rooms where his work speaks for itself.
Each event creates momentum. New partnerships form. New opportunities open. And more organizations are able to benefit from additional funds they may not have otherwise generated.
What Ernie appreciates most about WPBA is the people. There is a willingness here to collaborate, to listen, and to trust each other in pursuit of a shared goal. That environment allows Socially Funded to step in, do what they do best, and contribute to something bigger than any one business.
He also hopes more organizations understand just how accessible this type of fundraising support can be. Socially Funded is not an added expense. It is an opportunity. A way to enhance an event, increase revenue, and extend the reach of a nonprofit’s mission without adding financial strain.
At the end of the day, Ernie’s work is about impact. Every item placed, every bid made, and every dollar raised all circles back to helping organizations serve their communities in a bigger way.
And that is exactly the kind of partner we are grateful to have.
